Lampang: Gallop Back in Time in Thailand’s City of Horses 🐴
Tired of the usual tourist spots? Want to discover a city where the pace of life is set by the clip-clop of horse hooves? Then steer your adventure towards Lampang, a city that proudly holds the title of Thailand's last horse-drawn carriage city!
Lampang is a delightful paradox: a relaxed, riverside town that’s also a treasure chest of jaw-dropping temples, unique culture, and fascinating history. It's the perfect stop for travellers seeking a truly authentic Northern Thai experience. Let's go for a ride!
A Gallop Through Town: The Famous Horse Carriages
This isn't a tourist gimmick; it's a part of Lampang's soul! The horse-drawn carriage is the official symbol of the city and still a genuine way to get around. Hop in for a city tour and let your driver guide you past beautiful old teak houses, bustling markets, and along the sleepy Wang River. It’s the most romantic and relaxing way to see the sights. You can’t say you've been to Lampang until you've taken a ride! 🤩
Temples That Will Leave You Speechless
Lampang is home to some of the most impressive and historically important temples in all of Thailand.
- Wat Phra That Lampang Luang: Get ready to be wowed! This isn't just a temple; it's a fortified compound that feels like a sacred fortress. It's one of the best-preserved examples of Lanna architecture in the country. Don't miss the small wooden viharn (prayer hall) that holds a fascinating secret: on a sunny day, a hole in the wall projects an inverted, full-colour image of the golden chedi outside onto a white cloth—a natural camera obscura! 🤯
- Burmese Beauty: Explore temples like Wat Si Rong Mueang, a stunning example of intricate Burmese-style architecture built by teak merchants in the early 20th century. Its multi-tiered roof and detailed woodwork are a photographer's dream.
Elephants and Artistry 🎨
There's more to Lampang than just temples and horses!
- Thai Elephant Conservation Center (TECC): Visit the government-run TECC, a pioneering centre for elephant welfare. It's not just a place to see these gentle giants; it's home to the world's first elephant hospital and focuses on conservation and care. It’s an educational and heartwarming experience.
- The Famous Chicken Bowl: Have you ever seen a white ceramic bowl with a simple painting of a chicken on it in a Thai restaurant? Chances are it came from Lampang! This city is a major centre for ceramics, and the chicken bowl is its most iconic product. You can even visit the Dhanabadee Ceramic Museum to learn its story.
Why Make the Trip to Lampang?
- Unique Vibe: Where else in Thailand can you tour a city by horse?
- Fewer Crowds: Experience magnificent temples and authentic culture without the hustle and bustle.
- Perfectly Positioned: Lampang is an easy train or bus ride from Chiang Mai and makes a fantastic base for exploring other northern provinces.
Lampang offers a different flavour of Thailand—one that’s slower, more historical, and full of unexpected charms. Add it to your itinerary and discover the magic of the city that time, and tourists, have thankfully not forgotten.
